What is Freemasonry?

Freemasonry in Pennsylvania

      Freemasonry is the world's oldest largest Fraternity. Its history and tradition date to antiquity. Its singular purpose is to make good men better. Its bonds of friendship, compassion, and brotherly love have survived even the most divisive political, military, and religious conflicts through the centuries. Freemasonry is neither a forum nor a place for worship. Instead, it is a friend of all religions that are based on the belief in one God.

Who Freemasons Are

      Many of our nation's early patriots were Freemasons, as well as 13 signers of the Constitution and 14 Presidents of the United States including George Washington.

      Today, the more than three million Freemasons around the world come from virtually every occupation and profession. Within the Fraternity, however, they all meet as equals. They come from diverse political ideologies, but they meet as friends. They come from virtually every religious belief, but they all believe in one God.

      One of the fascinating aspects of Freemasonry has always been: how so many men from so many different walks of life can meet together in peace, never have any political or religious debates, always conduct their affairs in harmony and friendship, and call each other "Brother!"

What Freemasons Believe In

      All Freemasons believe in one God and in respect for each other.

What Freemasons Do

      Freemasons are respectable citizens who are taught to conform to the moral laws of society and to abide by the laws of the government under which they live. They are men of charity and good works. They remain unchallenged as "the world's greatest philanthropy!"

      The Freemasons of America contribute more than two million dollars every day to charitable causes which they, alone, have established. These services to mankind represent an unparalleled example of humanitarianism, commitment, and concern by this unique and honorable Fraternity.

The Masonic Lodge

      The Masonic Lodge meets one evening per month to conduct its regular business and vote on petitions for membership. Here is where the bonds of friendship and fellowship are strengthened.

The Masonic Degrees

      The candidate for Freemasonry receives three Masonic Degrees concluding with the Third (or Master Mason's) Degree. The Degrees are solemn, enlightening, and enjoyable experiences with no uncomfortable or embarrassing moments. It is here where the principles of Freemasonry are taught and where the new member learns that his family and his own necessary vocations are to be considered above Freemasonry.

More About Freemasonry

      This briefly explains what Freemasonry is, who Freemasons are, what they believe in, and what they do. It is important for you to know that those who desire membership must seek it on their own. Unfortunately, without this understanding, many qualified men have not enjoyed the special rewards of membership and fellowship in Freemasonry.

      If, after reading this you would like to have a representative of the Fraternity contact you, please complete the Pennsylvania Membership Information Request form. If you are not interested in Pennsylvania Masonic Membership, but have any questions or a desire to know more about Freemasonry, please contact the Grand Secretary for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.


Copyright ©2005 The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania